Numerical investigation of the receiver in linear Fresnel concentrators using computational fluid dynamics (CFD)

This paper presents a comprehensive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis conducted to evaluate the thermal performance and efficiency of the receiver in a linear Fresnel concentrator system. The receiver, a crucial component in concentrating solar power (CSP) technology, absorbs concentrated solar radiation and converts it into usable thermal energy. By employing CFD simulations, the complex fluid flow and heat transfer phenomena within the receiver are investigated, considering factors such as fluid dynamics, convective heat transfer, and thermal losses. The study explores a new design parameters and operational conditions to optimize the receiver's performance, aiming to enhance energy conversion efficiency and minimize thermal losses. Boundary conditions were examined for an ambient temperature of 293.15 K and solar radiation of 800 W/m2. Inlet velocities of the fluid were changed from the 0.2 m/s to 0.5 m/s to evaluate the thermophysical parameters of the absorber of concentrator. The results offer valuable insights into the thermal behavior of the receiver, facilitating informed design decisions and advancements in linear Fresnel concentrator technology for sustainable energy applications.